ECNETNews, New York, NY, February 25, 2025: Soca sensation Machel Montano has ignited excitement for Trinidad & Tobago’s 2025 Carnival with the release of his much-anticipated album, One Degree Hotter today. This 16-track project fuses high-energy Soca rhythms with global influences, showcasing collaborations with artists such as Ne-Yo, Davido, and Bunji Garlin. The album’s release comes on the heels of a public spat with rapper Nicki Minaj, leading Montano to issue an apology to ease tensions.
At the annual Stink N Dutty celebration in Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, Montano passionately performed his track “Good Spirit,” singing the line “don’t fight me down.” He addressed the audience, “Nicki Minaj, stop fight me down. Trinidad Killa, stop fight me down. I’s your daddy.” His powerful performance elicited strong reactions, which some fans misinterpreted as directed toward Minaj and Trinidad Killa. Minaj later responded on social media, expressing her confusion over Montano’s remarks.
A Star-Studded Carnival Soundtrack
The album opens with a vibrant remix of “Truth & Balance,” featuring R&B artist Ne-Yo, Jamaican dancehall artist Ayetian, and producer DJ MAC. Highlighting the global appeal of the album, Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido joins Montano on the track “Fling It Up,” which has already debuted at #48 on Billboard’s Afrobeats Songs Chart. A music video for the song is set to be filmed in Trinidad during Carnival.
The lead single, “PARDY,” produced by XplicitMevon & BadjohnRepublic, currently holds the #1 position in Trinidad & Tobago and is a strong contender for the Road March title. If Montano secures this victory, he will match Lord Kitchener’s record of 11 titles, solidifying his status as one of Soca’s greatest icons.
To amplify the Carnival experience, the album features a special “PARDY (Road Mix)” crafted for high-energy celebrations on the road.
More Than Just Music: Machel’s Evolution
The title One Degree Hotter signifies Montano’s ongoing reign in the Soca scene while also honoring his Master’s degree in Carnival Studies from the University of Trinidad & Tobago. After immersing himself in Carnival’s rich cultural tapestry for two years, Montano has returned to the studio with an enriched perspective, melding his extensive knowledge with his signature Soca flair.
Tracks such as “Pepper Vine,” featuring Lady Lava and Drupatee, highlight his ability to merge Caribbean, African, and Indian musical elements, pushing the boundaries of the Soca genre. This album underscores Montano’s commitment to taking Soca to an international audience.
Soca’s Biggest Star Keeps Winning
Building on the success of his 2021 project, The Wedding Album, One Degree Hotter reinforces Montano’s position as a pioneering force in music.
With over four decades in the industry, Montano remains Soca’s most significant transformative figure. His accolades include 10 Road March titles and 7 International Soca Monarch crowns, along with sold-out performances at Madison Square Garden and collaborations with artists like Rihanna and Drake.
Catch Machel Live at Carnival 2025
Fans can catch Machel Montano during the following Trinidad Carnival 2025 events:
📅 Feb 26 – Hyatt Lime
📅 Feb 26 – Punchy Wednesday
📅 Feb 28 – CLASS w/ Davido & Etienne Charles
Listen to One Degree Hotter Now!
🎧 Stream One Degree Hotter now
With One Degree Hotter, Machel Montano elevates the excitement, presenting an album that promises not only to enhance the Carnival experience but also to celebrate Soca on a global scale. Trinidad Carnival will officially take place from March 3rd to 4th.
